Lawrence A. Schiffman, D.O., FAOCD - Board Certified Dermatologist

Mole Removal

Mole Removal Everybody has moles. Not everybody is aware that they should keep their moles under close supervision, however. There are a few different types of moles. Generally speaking, they are mostly benign; but vigilance must always be practiced. It could potentially save your life. Some patients may choose to have them removed for a variety of different reasons, however. Often times moles may need to be removed because of location, regardless of any malignance.

What is a mole?

Moles are growths on the skin that typically show up with a brown or black color. They are skin cells that have been clustered together and can even protrude from the skin. They may appear by themselves, or in groups of two or more. During the first 25 years of the average person’s life, they will have already acquired most of the moles that will ever appear on their body. A normal amount of total moles to have on your body by age 25 ranges from 10-40. Over the years tend to change in a few different ways, while others may not change at all. Typical changes include you may find within the confines of an average mole include: color changes, hair growth, raising from the skin. Some moles may even disappear over time. However, some changes and mutations you experience with a mole can be a bit more alarming. These mutations are often your only warning when determining whether or not a mole may be cancerous. There is a simple acronym you can use to remember the criteria for potentially worrisome moles: ABCDE.

A.) Asymmetry: is the mole asymmetrical? If on half is unlike the other half, you should have the mole checked out by a physician.

B.) Border: is the border irregular, scalloped or poorly defined? These are also potential warnings signs.

C.) Color: A normal mole should be solid one color. If moles are multiple shades of tan and brown, or if they appear red, white or blue, this is likely cause for concern.

D.) Diameter: Melanomas are typically larger than a pencil eraser (or six millimeters), but can be much smaller.

E.) Evolving: a mole that looks different from others on your body or changes in size, shape or color should be checked out by a physician.

Why Remove a Mole?

As we mentioned earlier, some moles can be a serious issue and indicative of skin cancer. However, that is not the only reason a patient may choose to have a mole removed. Moles may sometimes grow in inconvenient places, such as an eyelid or around the mouth. These can be can be uncomfortable or even make a patient feel displeased with their appearance. If a mole does turn out to be cancerous, however, the choice to have it removed becomes much more apparent. And a licensed dermatologist is the way to go.

Why Should I See a Dermatologist to Remove a Mole?

There are many home remedies for many different conditions these days. Today, mole removals can be performed at home with a do it yourself mole removal kit. This is not advised, however. Home removal kits are never as effective, or as safe as a licensed dermatologist with the proper instruments. Mole removal is an operation that is often prone to pain, scars and infections. These side effects are more easily treated (or avoided altogether) in the hands of a professional.

Mole Removal in Miami, FL

For more information about mole removal contact our Doral, Miami Beach, or Aventura, FL location at 305-735-9474 or click here.

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